Vina ends season with 35-19 loss to Hubbertville

By Kadin Pounders

For the FCT

The Vina Red Devils football team wrapped up their season Friday night. Vina (0-10) took on the Hubbertville Lions (8-2) at home and were defeated 35-19.

Both teams relied heavily on their rushing attack to get them into the end zone. Hubbertville scored 35 points and shut out the Red Devils in the first half. In the second half Vina managed to put up 19 points while keeping the Lions scoreless, but the Red Devils could not complete the comeback.

The loss against Hubbertville brought Vina’s record to 0-20 since the start of the 2012 season.

Although the Red Devils had a disappointing season, head coach James Pharr was very proud of his players for being committed to the program and not hanging their heads.

“I’m very proud of the kids for sticking it out all season,” Pharr said. “This is a great group of young men.”

Four seniors led the Red Devils this season: Eddie Dees, Andrew Hester, Drake Hester, and Justin Garrett. Coach Pharr was quick to praise the seniors for their dedication to the team.

“The [seniors] are really special and fine young men,” Pharr said. “They did everything they were asked to do. I’m really proud of them.”

With the 2013 season ended, the Red Devils are looking forward to next season. Pharr is optimistic about the future of his team.

“This team is a stepping stone to the future,” he said. “There’s nowhere to go but up.”

The level of commitment, dedication, hard work, and perseverance by the players has boosted Pharr’s optimism, but the coach realizes there is still need for improvement. Teaching remains Pharr’s number one priority. Pharr wants his players to remember what characteristics the game of football instills in them in the long run as well.

“The thing people miss is what these young men become by hard work,” Pharr said. “That’s the most important thing. Hard work, dedication and commitment.”